Del Rey, from Seattle, Washington, is a complex, pianistic guitarist, described as “a combination of Bo Carter and the Andrews Sisters” (Observant Fan). Her guitar playing is influenced by country blues, stride piano, classic jazz and hillbilly boogie-all filtered through the sensibility of an autodidact trailor-park aesthete.

Del Rey is fascinated with the ukulele and plays the same kind of complicated rhythmic blues and ragtime on four strings as she does on six. She expects a lot out of the little instrument, and usually gets it. “The ukulele taken to a new level of musicianship”. (John Book)

Her live show is full of complex grooves and sly humor. “Virtuosic in just the right way, which is to say, in order to realize a musical idea. A very nice unlikely blend of things, accessible, slightly nostalgic, but fresh and thoughtful. ” (CD Baby review, “At The Ukeshack #1)

“Del Rey, who plays a syncopated style of guitar based on prewar blues and barrelhouse piano traditions, is one of the best fingerpickers of this or any generation. “ Ian Zack, Acoustic Guitar

SLOW JAM, first and third Mondays, 7:00pm to 8:30pm in the Lincoln Square hallway behind Common Ground Food Coop. Traditional, folk, country songs in a beginner-friendly setting. For all acoustic stringed instruments and/or voices. Singalong, play-along format.

Urbana’s home-grown open mic night with performances from solo artists as well as entire bands. There are a lot of “instant bands”….made up on the spot, depending on who is in the crowd. A great vibe, a local treasure.

Meets most Tuesdays, an informal gathering of musicians playing bluegrass style. Bring your fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, dulcimer, mandolin, uke, and come share a tune, or learn a new one. Located in the Lincoln Square Mall in the southwest corridor, near … Continue reading →

Illini Folk Dance Society Explore dances from around the world Everyone Welcome. We do mostly easy and intermediate dances from around the world. Come alone or with a friend. Beginners are especially encouraged! No partner or experience needed. We dance … Continue reading →